The coming of the little group evidently surprised them considerably, for they were not in the habit of having visitors. When they did come, it was from the fleet, bringing supplies and ammunition, and more quick-firing guns with which to hold the savage Turks at bay when they fought to hurl the men in khaki into the sea.
“Who are you, and where did you come from?” asked one of the officers, evidently the commander-in-chief of the little New Zealand force.
“We are two American boys who have been with the battle fleet, sir, and sent ashore by the Vice-Admiral on board the Thunderer. We were in the lower camp yesterday and witnessed the fight when they captured the Turks’ trenches.”
At that the officers uttered various exclamations of satisfaction, for up to then they were not absolutely sure what the result of the battle had been.
“Our errand to your camp, sir, is a personal one,” continued Jack; “but it can be explained later on. The first thing we want to tell you is that on our way here we came upon a very heavy detachment of the enemy, leaving the old shore road to swing around on your front. Our guide, the Greek, Arturus, here, is positive they mean to attack your position sometime between now and morning.”
At that every man sprang to his feet. Although they were constantly anticipating such news, when it did come, it produced a profound impression.
“Are you there, Arturus?” demanded the commander-in-chief, discovering the young Greek, who was evidently well known to him from previous meetings. “Do you back up all this young chap has been telling us?”
“It is the truth, General,” declared the guide. “They are in heavy force, and mean to give you a hard fight for your position. It is their aim to drive your force into the sea.”
Then followed quick, sharp orders, showing how well prepared the “Kiwis” were to accept the gage of battle. Under arms every minute of the day and night, ready to meet each emergency as it arose, they were not likely to be harried out of the position they had gained on the Gallipoli shore by any surprise tactics on the part of the sly enemy.
Presently there was no one with the newcomers save the commander-in-chief himself. He insisted on shaking hands with each of the three by turns.